Tigray rebel attack kills 30 civilians - government

By Ameyu Etana

Recent attacks by the Ethiopian rebel group, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), have claimed the lives of at least 30 civilians, the government says.

The conflict between the TPLF, which the government regards as a terrorist organisation, and Ethiopian federal forces is now nearly a year old.

In its latest statement, the government says the TPLF targeted areas in Amhara and Afar regional states, which both border Tigray, in “unwarranted attacks against innocent civilians”.

Whereas the government has been committed to a humanitarian ceasefire it announced in June, the statement adds, the TPLF has continued fighting.

The TPLF, which regards itself as the legitimate authority in Tigray, has not responded to the allegations.

It is difficult to independently confirm details as there is a communications blackout in the region.

Earlier on Monday, a TPLF official and witnesses told the BBC that there had been airstrikes on the capital of Tigray, Mekelle.

TPLF spokesman Getachew Reda said civilians were targeted but the federal government denies launching an attack.

Fresh fighting is exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in Tigray and other areas impacted by the war.

This article originally appeared on BBC News.

Photo: DW Media Group